Summary
The Department of Immigration says non-Bahamian nationals who want to live in The Bahamas for a purpose other than working must seek authorization through a Permit to Reside, also called an Annual Permit.
Who This Applies To
The official page lists two main groups:
- non-Bahamian persons attending school, college, or university
- dependents of someone who is legally authorized to reside in The Bahamas, whether that sponsor is Bahamian or non-Bahamian
Dependents may include spouses and children under 18.
Main Requirements
- Letter of request addressed to the Director of Immigration
-
BSD $200.00non-refundable processing fee - First Schedule Form 1 with a
BSD $10.00Bahamian postage stamp, legible and notarized - Original medical certificate dated no earlier than 30 days before submission
- Original police certificate issued within six months and covering five years of residence for applicants age 14 and older
- Two current passport photographs
- Signed, readable passport bio page copies for the applicant and the sponsor
- Character references
- Financial reference or accountant-prepared statement for adult or independent applicants
The page also lists extra document requirements for children, including school enrollment evidence and custody or guardianship evidence where relevant.
Processing Time
The Department says applicants should contact the Consultation Unit at 604-0241 within 8 to 12 weeks after the application has been accurately and completely submitted.
Important Notes
- Accompanying dependents must apply for their own Permit to Reside.
- Foreign documents need certified English translations.
- The Department says persons applying for status in first instance should not be in the country during processing.
When To Escalate To A Human
- The applicant's purpose for living in The Bahamas may count as work rather than residence only.
- The case involves children, guardianship, or split-parent custody.
- The applicant cannot supply police, medical, financial, or sponsor documents.
- The application is outside the published 8 to 12 week window.